UK PM Burnham vows to end ‘subscription traps’ amid cost-of-living crisis

On Sunday, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham revealed plans to tackle difficult-to-cancel subscriptions and misleading discounts amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. According to Downing Street, consumers in the UK are estimated to spend around £1.6 billion (US$2.2 billion) annually on unwanted subscriptions. Burnham, who has recently taken on the role of Labour leader, expressed that "people are sick and tired of rip-off discounts and subscription traps," promising that his administration would simplify the process of exiting subscriptions. New regulations, effective January next year, will mandate businesses to offer clearer information, send regular reminders, and facilitate easier contract cancellations. A 14-day cooling-off period will also be introduced, allowing consumers to cancel after a trial or renewal, though implementation details remain unspecified. Burnham is expected to resume work after a holiday and embark on a nationwide tour to engage with citizens about financial challenges.